making your summer break count

The end of the school year doesn't give you an excuse to be lazy. Summer is a great time to continue learning. Here are some tips to enhance your skills throughout summer:

Visit your local library. Public libraries are great resources for additional learning materials. Talk with a librarian to locate items targeted to your needs. What is not available locally often can be retrieved through interlibrary loan programs.

Seek out tutors. Talk with your teachers and school counselors for help locating individual coaching in areas in which you want to improve or even expand your understanding.

Use every opportunity to learn. Taking a family vacation? Spend time learning about the area you will visit, such as its history and demographics. Painting your house? Learn about the chemistry of paint or calculate the amount of paint you'll need to cover the desired square footage.

Read, read, read. Summer is a great time to read a book without a deadline. Immerse yourself in each one, researching the author and relevant history. Check out this summer reading list for high school students.

Take a trip around the world in 80 days. Since summer break typically lasts about 80 days, map your own way around the globe by studying different areas each week.

By taking advantage of every opportunity, you'll have fun and learn at the same time. Make your summer break count!